Taylor strolls back into Zimbabwe picture

Zimbabwe, still reeling from two hefty defeats by India A, have received some good news with the unexpected return of Brendan Taylor.

Taylor, who was the No. 1 choice as wicketkeeper-batsman during Tatenda Taibu's self-imposed exile, has often been at odds with the cricketing establishment and when he failed to return to training after breaching the board's orders not to play abroad, many felt it was the end of his chequered international career.

Even though it was widely reported he had fallen out with Ozias Bvute, Zimbabwe Cricket's notorious managing director, such is the need for proven players that when Taylor reappeared at training last week he was welcomed back. It is reported that he told Kevin Curran, the coach, that he was available for selection for the A team matches and three ODIs against South Africa later this month.

What is less certain is how welcome Taylor will be among his team-mates who he left in the lurch against India A, but his experience could be vital. Against India A, Zimbabwe, who were called Zimbabwe Select but were the full national side in all but name, were comprehensively outplayed in all departments.